Pre Columbian Colima Swollen-Foot Vessel, ca. 200 BC-200 AD

Seller:uniqueantique34(1,486)100%,
Location: New York, New York,
Ships to: US & many other countries,
Item:272465628667Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE Pre Columbian Colima Swollen-Foot Vessel, ca. 200 BC-200 AD From ancient Western Mexico a rare clay hollow vessel in the form of a swollen human foot, 3” long and 1.5” high (at tallest point). The foot most likely exhibits edema— excessive fluid in cells or tissues—symptomatic of heart, liver, or kidney failure. The foot presents five toes—as would be expected—and is glazed with brown pigment. It is in excellent condition except for several tiny chips to the ankle portion., Archaeologists speculate about its meaning: Was a libation to the gods poured from it in a shamanistic ritual to cure the underlying illness? Was it buried with the deceased to reflect the cause of death? Was it a teaching article to demonstrate edema to young medicine-men? The answer remains elusive. Comes with custom mount. Excellent provenance: formerly of the Weisman Collection. Acquired in the 1950s-60s.